"I love the musical world. It takes me places where I can't (physically) go. I'm in another sphere where I can do anything on the piano," he said. "I'm sure I look at music differently because of my condition, and I think that comes through in the music."

Ryan graduated from BYU with a music degree in 2000 and has worked with other well-established LDS recording artists since.

"Cherie (Call) and I did a song together for an Especially For Youth CD," Ryan said. "It wasn't chosen, but I think it was a pretty good song."

Call agrees with Moody's assessment of their song and is quick to comment on Moody's musical ability. "Ryan is a very persistent, dedicated, hard-working and good musician and songwriter . . . and a cool guy," she said.

According to those who know him, Moody's cheery disposition and ability to make friends are a couple of his better-known characteristics.

Sam Cardon, another well-known LDS musician, was taken by Ryan's musical talents and agreed to work on "Sunshine From My Soul" by performing all of the string arrangements.

"Ryan has an unusual talent. He has developed a technique to compensate for not being able to use the pedals and make it sound as if he does use them," Cardon said. "He really does have a gift. His composing, arranging and performing talent is not just a fluke. Ryan is the real deal, and I'll be glad to work with him again."

Moody and Cardon indeed will work together again. They are planning to record a compilation of Christmas music for a forthcoming CD to be released later this year.

"Sunshine From My Soul" is available at most LDS bookstores . . . you'll just have to look for it.

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E-mail: kmartinez@desnews.com